Washington (AP) – Following the lively Rainbow Celebration at Saturday’s parade, the final day of World Pride 2025 in the nation’s capital began with a more somber tone.
Under a gloomy sky on Sunday morning, thousands assembled at the Lincoln Memorial for a rally and protest march, uniting in their solidarity as the community braces for the challenges ahead under President Donald Trump‘s second term.
“This is more than just a celebration,” stated Ashley Smith, director of the board of directors for Capital Privacy Alliance. “This is a gathering of our lives.”
Smith pointed out that international participation in World Pride has noticeably decreased, with many potential attendees opting out of traveling to the US due to ongoing protests against harassment and Trump’s policies.
“It should motivate us to mobilize,” Smith added.
Supporters cheered for LGBTQ+ activists on stage, showcasing both traditional pride flags and flags representing transgender, bisexual, intersex, and other communities. Many attendees adorned their faces with rainbow glitter and rhinestones, holding signs declaring “fightback,” “gays are good,” “ban bombs, not bathrooms,” and “we will not be erased.”
The rhetoric surrounding Trump’s Transgender campaign and its stark opposition have left a significant impact on the community, with some hoping to witness a resurgence of street politics as a result.
“Trans individuals just want to be loved. Everyone wants to live their lives. I don’t see what the issue is,” said Tyler Cargill, who donned an extravagant costume topped with a hat resembling the Capitol.
Wes Kincaid traveled approximately six hours from Charlotte, North Carolina, to participate this year. While resting on a park bench by the reflecting pond, Kincaid emphasized the importance of showing up for the community. “It’s more crucial than ever to be present,” he remarked.
Visual reminders of federal program cuts were prominently displayed on Sunday. One person waved a large pole with a rainbow flag alongside a sizable USAID flag. Another held a sign reading “Proud Gay Federal Worker,” while a third had an umbrella showcasing logos of federal programs slated for cuts, including PBS.
Trump’s anti-trans narrative has fueled fears of violence or protests targeting pride festivities globally. Earlier this spring, rumors circulated that the Proud Boys were planning to disrupt the weekend’s events. These concerns led organizers to erect security fencing along the extensive two-day celebration on Pennsylvania Avenue.
Thus far, the most notable incident was the destruction of Strange Bar last week. Late Saturday night, violent occurrences near Dupont Circle saw two individuals stabbed and one man shot in the leg in separate episodes. The Metropolitan Police Department has stated that it is unclear whether these incidents were directly related to World Pride.
As noon approached, cold rain began to fall, prompting rally speakers to adjust their remarks as the crowd prepared to march. Some attendees departed, while others huddled under umbrellas and ponchos.
“The rain won’t deter us. After the rain, the rainbow appears,” proclaimed a speaker on stage.
The speeches did not solely focus on the Trump administration or the Republican Party; some attendees directed their frustration towards Democratic politicians as well. They expressed disappointment in what they perceived as a lack of support amidst Republican dominance in both the White House and Congress.
“We need to hold accountable those who have abandoned the movement,” stated Tyler Huck of the Christopher Street Project.
“Being a Democrat means more than just party affiliation,” Huck continued. “It’s about unwavering support for the trans community.”
As the main march headed towards the Capitol, another group diverted towards the White House, unfurling a large banner reading “Trump has to go now.”
Those who remained alerted in the adverse weather conditions felt their presence was vital.
“This is a significant opportunity to learn about their struggles,” remarked Gillian Brewer, a university student studying physics in Silver Spring, Maryland. “We’re not going anywhere.”
Brewer expressed disappointment in the lower turnout for Sunday’s protest march compared to the World Pride Parade the day prior, which she had chosen to skip.
“This is even more important,” Brewer affirmed. “You can enjoy all the celebrations you want, but ultimately, it’s the protest that allows us to celebrate.”
Natalie Farmer, who traveled with her wife from San Diego, noted the stark contrast in attendance between the two events, attributing it to many feeling fatigued from the festivities the night before.
“Some of us need to come together to sustain the celebration,” Farmer said. “We are all fighting in various ways.”
Source: apnews.com